The Relationship between Iranian EFL Learners’ Emotional Intelligence and Their Performance on TOEFL/PBT

Abstract

The present study elaborated the relationship between Iranian higher intermediate EFL learners’ Emotional Intelligence (EI) and their performance on TOEFL/PBT. Advancement in emotional traits and self-awareness about ones likes and dislikes might increase motivation in learners. Furthermore, most English instructors, who prepare their students for TOEFL test, may emphasize more on their students’ EI just as their capabilities in English skills. The participants in this study (104 males and females) were selected from Islamic Azad University (Tehran, Mashhad, and Bojnord Branches), Payam-e-Noor University (Bojnord Branch), Guilan University; Shahid Beheshti University; and Iran University of Science and Technology, regardless of their major, age, and gender. Participants took a TOEFL/PBT and the Bar-On EQ questionnaire. Results indicated a significant and positive relationship between EQ and scores on TOEFL/PBT.